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The Roubaix includes a number of design touches seen widely elsewhere, such as the way the curved top tube narrows in proﬁle where it joins the seat tube and the use of comparatively narrow seatstays.

However, there are also some features unique to Specialized, notably the vibration-damping Zertz inserts which feature in the Roubaix’s frame, fork and seatpost.

While the Roubaix does indeed offer an almost armchair-like comfort – it rides as smoothly as any high-end bike we’ve tried – we think the frame geometry is the most important factor in achieving this.

For example, Specialized have built a little bit more ‘give’ into the rear end by using a curved brake bridge; this results in a slightly longer distance from seat tube to brake bridge, hence a little more ﬂex.

A standard 27.2mm seatpost, rather than an oversized version, also helps add a little more comfort. And, although there has been a shift towards slightly less compact frames in the past few years – certainly in the pro peloton – the Roubaix still has a dramatically compact carbon frame.

Combining this with Specialized’s own full-carbon monocoque fork, the result is a bike that’s not only comfortable but weighs in at not much more than the UCI’s 6.8kg minimum weight. With Ultegra pedals (317g), our test bike nudged the scales at just 7.4kg (16lb).

Equipment: Shimano Dura-Ace plus quality own-brand kit

All the equipment, as you would expect on a bike at this price, is about as good as it gets. Specialized’s carbon bars, carbon cranks and its clever four-position stem complement the Dura-Ace groupset.

The chainrings are 7075 T6 aluminium with a nickel/boron-coating for added toughness, and the saddle is a Specialized Toupe with hollow titanium rails, again designed to increase comfort on long-distance rides.